Noles Looking to Rebound
Despite coming off a loss, Florida State basketball is looking up. Last Saturday, the Noles showed just how well they can compete with ACC’s elite by controlling much of the first half against No. 6 Duke and matching the Blue Devils shot for shot.
Florida State consistently punished Duke’s defense from the perimeter, knocking down timely threes to counter Duke’s runs, showing its fast-paced style can challenge top-ten teams.
Still, the narrow four-point loss showed the Noles exactly where their weak spots lie, particularly in assists, turnover reduction, and closing the free-throw gap. If they want to continue to challenge these top teams, they need to hone in on these areas.
Tomorrow, the Noles turn their attention to another conference test as they host NC State, looking to improve to 8-8 overall. Florida State has seen consistent success at home this season, with every single one of its wins coming in Tallahassee. The Tucker Center, especially on a Saturday afternoon, has proven to be one of the toughest environments to play in.
Keys to the Matchup
Heading into the matchup, Florida State’s biggest advantage lies in its offense. The Noles are averaging nearly 84 points per game, significantly greater than NC State’s 71 points per contest. Florida State thrives on speeding up its opponents, forcing mistakes, and consistently converting in transition, ultimately making tempo a key part of its game plan.
However, NC State definitely can challenge the Noles. The Wolfpack is a more efficient shooting team and boasts stronger three-point percentages that allow them to stay more competitive, even in slower-paced games.
They also bring a solid defensive presence on the glass, limiting second-chance opportunities, which is an area that has hurt Florida State in its close losses. Combined with their recent momentum and a steadier ACC record, NC State presents a serious threat.
Ultimately, this game is going to come down to execution. If Florida State can dictate the tempo and capitalize on its scoring depth, the Seminoles’ offense could be the difference. If NC State controls the boards, limits turnovers, and forces Florida State into half-court offense, the Wolfpack’s efficiency may be just enough to secure a win on the road.